Why Ukrainian drones can brave freezing temperatures — And how military keeps them running
Illustrative photo: drone launch (Getty Images)
Ukrainian forces have found an unexpected way to protect drones from the cold.
The commander of a Ukrainian UAV unit told Business Insider about the method.
Read also: The Ukrainian special forces unit Alpha reportedly set a new record in shooting down Russian drones, according to recent reports.
Ukrainian forces have reportedly discovered an unexpected way to keep drones operational in freezing winter conditions. According to a commander of a Ukrainian UAV unit, the front-line environment in winter presents unique challenges, as subzero temperatures make drones particularly vulnerable. Cold weather reduces the voltage in drone batteries, which in turn limits their flight range and decreases overall effectiveness.
To address this issue, the commander explained, troops have begun wrapping drone batteries in disposable heated insoles, normally used to keep soldiers’ feet warm in boots. These chemical warmers maintain the batteries at an optimal operating temperature prior to flights, preventing sudden drops in voltage and helping preserve both the range and performance of the drones. He noted that while batteries naturally heat up during flight, extreme cold creates the need for an additional heat source. The commander emphasized that this method does not add weight or otherwise reduce the performance of the drones.
The ingenuity of Ukrainian drone operators reportedly extends beyond heated insoles. Lieutenant Colonel Yuriy of the National Guard’s electronic warfare unit told reporters that soldiers often use small heated containers, typically intended to keep food warm, to store batteries and radio equipment. These improvised solutions allow Ukrainian forces to maintain operational readiness for their drones even under severe winter conditions.
Officials have also highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Russian drones. Colonel Yuriy Ihnat, head of communications for the Ukrainian Air Force, reportedly pointed out that Russian Shahed drones have evolved and now represent a primary aerial threat to Ukraine. In response, President Volodymyr Zelensky is said to have ordered strengthened counter-drone defenses in frontline cities to prevent the use of drones against civilians.
These efforts, according to Ukrainian sources, demonstrate both adaptability and resourcefulness, allowing the military to continue drone operations effectively despite extreme weather and continued aerial threats from Russia.
